Tralee

County Kerry's capital and its largest town, Tralee (population 21,000) has long been associated with the popular Irish song "The Rose of Tralee," the inspiration for the annual Rose of Tralee International Festival. The last week of August, Irish communities worldwide send young women to join native Irish competitors; one of them is chosen as the Rose of Tralee. Visitors, musicians, and entertainers pack the town then. A two-day horse-race meeting—with seven races a day—runs at the same time, which contributes to the crowds. Tralee is also the home of Siamsa Tíre—the National Folk Theatre of Ireland—which stages dances and plays based on Irish folklore.